What action should be taken first when treating a patient with suspected airway compromise?

When dealing with a patient who is suspected of having an airway compromise, the first action to take is to manually open the airway. This is a critical step because an obstructed airway can lead to inadequate oxygenation and ventilation, which can quickly escalate to life-threatening conditions. By manually opening the airway, you can ensure that air can flow freely into the lungs, allowing for effective breathing and oxygen exchange.

This priority is rooted in the ABC (Airway, Breathing, Circulation) approach used in emergency care, where securing the airway is always the initial focus. Once the airway is open, you can assess the patient's breathing and determine the appropriate next steps, such as administering oxygen or preparing for intubation if necessary.

While administering high-flow oxygen is essential for patients experiencing respiratory distress, it is ineffective if the airway is obstructed. Checking the patient's pulse is also important to assess circulation, but it does not address the immediate threat of airway compromise. Preparing for intubation is a more advanced intervention, and it is typically a secondary action to be taken after you've ensured the airway is open and assessed the need for further interventions.